Nigerian nurses and midwives have declared a 7-day warning strike starting at midnight on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
Their decision follows the Federal Government’s failure to meet demands outlined in a 15-day ultimatum.
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) issued a strong directive to all state councils.
Consequently, leaders must now mobilize members across the country for industrial action unless the Federal Ministry of Health acts immediately.
In a circular dated July 25, NANNM’s national secretariat in Abuja clearly outlined the strike plans.
The document was signed by top officials including Orolu Sesan, 2nd National Vice President, and Elder Otaru Daniel Shaibu, Deputy General Secretary.
“You would recall that the National Leadership issued the above ultimatum to the Federal Government over unresolved issues,” the circular stated.
“This took effect from 12:00 midnight on Monday, July 14, 2025. Therefore, the ultimatum ends by midnight Tuesday, July 29.”
The association urged state leaders to summon emergency meetings by Monday, July 28. Their goal, in particular, is to mobilize members at all levels and prepare for the strike.
“Kindly accord this message the importance it deserves,” the circular added.
Earlier, NANNM’s National Executive Council met virtually on July 10 to address concerns over a circular from the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
That document, however, reviewed allowances for healthcare workers but excluded many of NANNM’s core demands.
Following the meeting, National President Haruna Mamman and General Secretary Dr. T.A. Shettima signed a communiqué rejecting the government’s offer.
They labeled it “inadequate, discriminatory, and disappointing.” As a result, the union decided to proceed with the strike plan.
Furthermore, NANNM accused the government of ignoring the sacrifices made by nurses and midwives.
“These frontline health workers carry the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Therefore, they deserve fair compensation and recognition,” the communiqué stressed.
Unless the government acts fast, Nigeria could face a major healthcare crisis within days.
Hospitals and clinics, for instance, may shut down essential services as thousands of nurses walk off the job.
